Overlanding in Texas - The Ultimate Guide

In This Article

• Planning Your Texas Overlanding Trip
• Understanding Texas's Geography and Climate
• Essential Gear and Vehicle Prep
• Top Overlanding Routes Across Texas (Beginner to Intermediate)
• Planning a Safe Overlanding Texas Trip
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Key Highlights

• Texas offers diverse overlanding terrain across its 268,000 square miles, but only 4% is public land
• Best regions: Big Bend (desert/canyons), Hill Country (rolling hills/rivers), East Texas (forests), Panhandle (scenic drives), Gulf Coast (beaches)
• Optimal seasons: Spring and fall have moderate temperatures; summer is extremely hot; winter works well for desert areas
• Essential planning: Download offline maps, create realistic itineraries, identify fuel stations (can be 100+ miles apart in remote areas)
• Vehicle requirements: High-clearance 4x4 with all-terrain tires recommended for most trails
• Top routes include Texas Hill Country (easy-moderate), Big Bend Backcountry Loop (moderate-difficult), Piney Woods Trail (easy-moderate), Canadian River Canyon Run (easy-moderate), and Padre Island Beach Run (easy with sand driving skills)
• Safety essentials: Multiple navigation systems, offline maps, weather monitoring, and adequate water supply (1-2 gallons per person per day)

Overview

If you want to explore new places with Overlanding, then Texas is worth considering because it is the second largest state in the US. Driving in the state of Texas is unlike anywhere else as the state is over 268,000 square miles and offers different ecosystems as diverse countries rolled into one fantastic place. From the deserts and canyons in Big Bend National Park and the Chihuahuan Desert to rolling hills and limestone riverbeds in Central Texas, Texas lives up to everyone’s taste.

Another reason to visit Texas is that it is home to several cultures. With every block, you will learn something new about the heritage of Texans along with their picturesque culture. There are also cowboy towns with which you will not only explore ancient sites but also visit modern Tex-Mex towns. These unique additions to the road turn an ordinary trip into a once in a lifetime experience.

Overlanding in Texas is ideal for people seeking a thrilling adventure, wanting to stay close to nature, running away from the daily grind of hectic life, or off-road vehicle owners. 

However, a huge area of Texas is privatized, only leaving 4% to the public. Therefore, curating a plan before embarking on overlanding in Texas is crucial. Many public places for adventure and overlanding exist, but a well-thought-out plan is especially important. 

But worry no more, as this guide is here to help you out in this case. Now, whether you are a beginner new to the overlanding world or an intermediate overlander who has a little experience regarding off-roading and a thirst for adventure, this guide will answer your questions. If you're looking for more general advice, check out our guide on how to get started with overlanding.

Planning Your Texas Overlanding Trip

For a safe and successful adventure, planning beforehand is very important. And to think that only 4% of Texan land is public makes it much more important. For overlanding in Texas, climate and weather should be considered because you never know about the Texan weather. So, following, I’ll take you through all the things that you should plan.

Trip Planning Basics

• Maps and Navigations: The basic planning starts with maps and navigation. Download offline map apps in case of no cellular or poor internet connections. Off-road places often have no cellular services. Keeping a paper map as a backup is wise and smart. 
• Set a Realistic Itinerary: Be realistic regarding your potential. Don’t overestimate your mileage. You will need time to rest, relax, and explore because overlanding is about the journey, not the destination. Also, the mileage on a rugged path is not the same as on a smooth road. 
• Identifying Fuel Stations on the Route: Spot the fuel stations on maps before hitting the road. In remote places, fuel stations are usually miles away. So plan accordingly.
• Learn Backup Routes: Learn about the backup routes due to unexpected road closures or bad weather. Remember that flexibility is a crucial skill for overlanding. 
• Great trails for people with a thirst for off-roading. East Texas and Piney Woods, as the 

Understanding Texas's Geography and Climate

• Texan Geography: Before setting off to Texas, you should know Texan geography. With its immense area and fewer public locations, it might be tricky to locate where you should go. Some major overlanding regions in Texas include Big Bend National Park in West Texas, a remote place with desert and canyons, for people seeking rugged terrain. The next stop is Hill Country in Central Texas, embellished with hills and rivers offering name suggests, thick forests with challenging trails, cooler than the other places. Accompanied by constant winds, the Panhandle and High Plains offer scenic drives with the most beautiful sky. For coastal overlanding, drive through the Gulf Coast with its sandy beaches and salty water, especially Padre Island. 
• Understanding Climate: But, before planning all this look for the weather conditions of Texas. Summer in Texas, especially in West Texas and Panhandle, is very hot. So, taking precuationary measures must be considered. As for winter, the temperature may decrease to below zero. Overlanding in such temperatures is almost impossible as it can affect your vehicle's performance, and it will be uncomfortable camping outside. 

Be aware of floods, particularly in Hill Country. Dry terrains may turn into rivers in a matter of minutes. Avoid coastal overlanding from August to September as there are high risks of tsunamis and hurricanes. Understanding how conditions change is key. Overlanding through the seasons provides an in-depth seasonal tips.

Recommended Seasons and Weather

Fuel, Water, and Supplies Logistics

• Fuel stations in locations like Big Bend are over 100 miles apart. So, the wise thing to do is to closely monitor your fuel consumption and carry fuel cans with you. In some areas, such as in deserts or beaches, water may be undrinkable. Carry 1-2 gallons of water per person per day and some extra for cooking and washing. 
  Carrying extra fuel, water, and supplies requires adequate storage. Consider installing a durable roof rack (find the best roof rack for your needs).
  
• Calculate the number of days you will be on the road and pack food accordingly. Always pack some extras. Protein bars, instant noodles, dried meat, and other quickly cooked foods are the best options. 
• Basic repair tools, extra fuel, belts, fuses, etc., must be present in your car. And most importantly, locate the towns or ranger stations for restocks before hitting the road. 

Essential Gear and Vehicle Prep

Texas-Specific Considerations for Overlanding Gear

• It is quite important to take into consideration the diverse conditions of Texas and prepare accordingly. As for hot areas like West Texas, the temperatures are very high. It is crucial to customize your vehicle that way. Insert heavy cooling systems and radiators to kill engine heat. Monitor the temperature gauge from time to time if you are traveling or resting under the sun. 
  While preparing your vehicle, consider your shelter. Options range from traditional ground tents to vehicle-mounted systems like roof top tents (learn about RTTs vs Ground Tents) and car awnings for shade.
• For your safety, heavy SPF sunscreens, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and light clothes are necessary to kill the heat and stay protected from harsh sun rays. Hydrate yourselves continuously in such conditions, and consider carrying insulated flasks. 
• To stay safe from mosquitoes and other insects, carry an insect repellent spray, a mosquito net to sleep comfortably at night, and permethrin-treated clothes for protection from ticks.
• Sand mats and portable air compressors are must-haves when overlanding in coastal areas. Also, give your vehicle a thorough wash after adventuring in coastal areas to avoid salt and sand clogs. 
• Many things like thorny bushes, cactus spines, and sharp rocks can deflate your tire, so always carry a tire repair kit. Furthermore, e quipping your vehicle with proper vehicle protection accessories, such as skid plates and rock sliders, is wise for Texas trails. Learn about must have gear for off-roaders."
• Traction boards, a high-lift jack, mud boots, and raincoats are important for wet areas. 

Top Overlanding Routes Across Texas (Beginner to Intermediate)

No matter if you are looking for coastal overlanding or rugged trails, breathtaking skies, or raw beauty, Texas is a great choice, as it offers you a diverse range of overlanding locations to experience. For a beginner and an intermediate level overlander, it might be a bit difficult to choose a place according to your taste, so the following is an extensive list of some places that might be best for you. 

1. Hill Country: Texas Hill Country Overland Route

• Overview and Highlight: A region embellished with rolling hills and encircled by country and ranch roads, offering picturesque landscape with cute, small towns, wildflower fields, and crystal clear waters.
• GPS Coordinates/Maps: It begins near Johnson City and loops through areas around Llano, Mason, and Fredericksburg. Download the map from the overlanding community sites.
• Permits/Access: No permit is required as long as you stay on the marked roads. When entering state parks, you might need to pay for entrance.
• Difficulty Rating: Easy to moderate difficulty level with gravel or dirt roads and suitable for stock 4x4 vehicles. It is very convenient in dry conditions but may be a challenge a little after heaving rains. 
• Camping Options: Many camping options are available, such as Enchanted Rock State Natural Area or Lost Maples State Park, with reservations and private ranches or outfitters in the Hill Country.
• Points of Interest: Don’t miss out on scenic Willow City Loop (wildflower haven in spring), historic Fredericksburg (for a mid-trip rest, food, and fuel), the Llano River for a refreshing dip, and sites like the Alamo Springs Café (a quirky off-road stop for a burger) or Luckenbach, TX for a dose of country music history. 

2. West Texas (Big Bend Region): Big Bend Backcountry Loop

• Overview & Highlights: West Texas takes you through the canyons of the adventurous Big Bend National Park and the dramatic landscapes of the Chihuahuan Desert. It takes you around the solitude of the rarely traveled 4x4 paths and under the breathtaking night skies. 
• GPS Coordinates/Maps: Enter Big Bend at Panther Junction. Old Ore Road runs from near Rio Grande Village to the Dagger Flat area; Black Gap Road connects from Glenn Springs to the River Road. Also, look for park and GPX maps.
• Permits/Access: Big Bend National Park requires an entrance fee. When camping overnight along backcountry roads, a free backcountry park permit is given to you, which takes you to designated road camps.
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Difficult. Choosing between SUVs, trucks, or vans for overlanding also depends on your needs. Old Ore Road requires a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle as the paths are moderately rough, while Black Gap Road requires the same vehicle but with expertise in off-roading as the drive is very challenging. 
• Camping Options: Big Bend National Park provides primitive camping options. You can camp on your own in the wilderness sites as well. 
• Points of Interest: Ernst Tinaja, for a short hike; the ruins of Johnson’s Ranch airstrip on River Road; Black Gap Mine remnants; and sweeping vistas of the Sierra del Carmen. Wildlife spotting is possible – keep an eye out for javelinas, roadrunners, or even black bears near the Chisos if you detour. Also, visit the Ghost Town just west of the park for a well-earned rest and some local flavor.

3. East Texas: Piney Woods Trail (Sam Houston National Forest / Barnwell Mountain)

• Overview & Highlights: Piney Woods, Sam Houston National Forest, and Barnwell Mountain National Area offer you muddy terrains and forest lands, which is in contrast with West Texas. These places take you through trails of various qualities, offering you vast options to choose from.
• GPS Coordinates/Maps: Sam Houston NF option: Start at the Ranger Station near New Waverly, TX. Follow FS roads like FR 208 and 209, making a loop toward Lake Conroe and back – maps available from the Forest Service show open roads. Barnwell Mountain option: located at GPS approx 32.799° N, -94.942° W (Barnwell Mtn). 
• Permits/Access: Although Sam Houston National Park’s entrance is free of cost, Barnwell Mountain is a fee based park. 
• Difficulty Rating: Easy to Moderate (with optional Difficult segments). For people looking for easy trails, Sam Houston National Park is for you, and for people seeking a moderately difficult path, Barnwell Mountain offers gentle heels and technical trails.
• Camping Options: Sam Houston National Forest, Lake Conroe, and Barnwell Mountains offer primitive campsites for campers.
• Points of Interest: Sam Houston National Forest, Double Lake Recreational Area, Caddo Lake, and historic town of Jefferson, TX, and Lake Bob Sandlin are must-visits during your overlanding journey, as they offer picnic spots, woodland scenery and sights of wildlife.

4. Panhandle: Canadian River Canyon Run (Texas Panhandle)

• Overview & Highlights: Follow the Canadian River to the Texas Panhandle, where it takes you to Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. 
• GPS Coordinates/Map: Enter the Lake Meredith NRA at the Rosita Flats entrance (approx 35.630° N, -101.597° W). From there, you can drive along miles of the Canadian River’s path westward. Take help from GPS and navigation apps as well.
• Permits/access: Entrance to Lake Meredith is free as it is a public park. Texas OHV decal is necessary on your vehicle for off-roading according to Texan law and when venturing into ORV trails, make sure that your car has an ORV permit displayed on the windshield. 
• Difficulty Rating: Easy to Moderate. The area in Panhandle is suitable for beginners as well as intermediate ones. But be aware of the rain as it can turn your adventure from an easy one into a difficult one.
• Camping Options: Primitive camps are allowed alongside the Canadian River, while the Lake Meredith Campgrounds have specific places for camps. 
• Points of Interest: Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, the Canadian River, Palo Duro Canyon State Park offer hiking, canyon and red cliff views, sights of wildlife, and campsites. 

5. Gulf Coast: Padre Island Beach Run (Gulf Coast Overland)

• Overview & Highlights: Padre Island National Seashore – one of the longest undeveloped barrier island coastlines in the world- offers an unforgettable coastal overlanding experience. Gulf Coast is best for people seeking a coastal experience with waves as your backdrop and sunrise above the ocean as your first sight in the morning.
• GPS Coordinates/Map: Start at Malaquite Visitor Center (Padre Island National Seashore, near Corpus Christi). The pavement ends at around Beach Mile 5, after which you enter the sand track known as South Beach. For more precise navigation, follow GPS and navigation sites, maps, or apps.
• Permits/Access: Padre Island NS requires a park entrance fee, while camping beyond that is free of cost. Another point for consideration is that only 4x4 vehicles are allowed in such areas.
• Difficulty Rating: Easy (with Sand Driving skills). Beginners can start from these areas as they are easy to drive on, but make sure to look for high tides and avoid driving after rain. 
• Camping Options: Camping anywhere on the beach is free. But you are on your own, so make sure to come prepared and choose a space far from the ocean.
• Points of Interest: The overlanding through the Gulf Coast is quite mesmerizing. It can also entertain you through sea treasures like sea shells and baby Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles. You can also see tropical birds and witness the stories of past shipwrecks and pirates' treasures. 

Planning a Safe Overlanding Trip

Now, it is your job to plan your overlanding journey in Texas according to your priorities. If you are looking for a budget friendly option or want to challenge yourself, one tank of gas is quite a thrill. Keep in consideration that it will cover hardly 100 to 300 miles. Keep an eye out for that. If you are tight on budget then consider these tips for overlanding on a budget.

If you are traveling with family, planning for overlanding with kids requires some specific considerations, ride along the paths that lead to national or public parks as they offer restrooms and places for children to play. 

If you are a photography lover, bring your camera and capture the beauty of nature and wildlife through your camera’s lens.

Texas is brimming with history and culture, so if you are fond of that, choose your routes accordingly. Ensure you have all necessary items by reviewing an ultimate overlanding essentials checklist

Safety and Preparedness in Remote Texas

Beyond navigation, being prepared for emergencies is vital. Ensure you have a comprehensive first aid kit using this overlanding first aid kit checklist.

Conclusion:

I think that’s enough advice for your journey of overlanding in Texas. No doubt that it is a place and state brimming with heritage, culture as well as breathtaking and mind blowing natural landscapes. 

Offering a wide range of trails for beginners to experts, Texas is for everyone. Canyons, sand dunes, coastal trails, and wildlife, it is truly your next best shot for overlanding. From rugged trails to evenly paved paths and piney wooden routes to beautiful hills alongside your car, Texas offers something to everyone.

With proper planning and packing, you can travel safely. Tailor the trip to your best interest and make it one of the unforgettable ones. So, wait no more, pack up, because Texas is waiting for you!

FAQs

Q. Is overlanding in Texas worthy?

With its vast and varied lands and trails, Texas is the best for your next overlanding journey. No matter if you are a beginner or expert in this area, Texas offers you something worth remembering. Whether it is a smooth journey along the Hill Country or a thrilling adventure through Big Bend National Park, overlanding in Texas is worth taking a shot.

Q. What type of vehicle is recommended for overlanding in Texas?

A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with all-terrain tires is recommended for all types of trails. Jeep, Toyota Tacoma, RAM 1500, and Chevy Silverado are the best options. 

Q. What are some basics that I should know about overlanding in Texas?

First, make sure that you have a navigation app downloaded on your phone that runs without internet or cellular connections. Also, keep a paper map as a backup. Travel slowly, as overlanding is all about the journey rather than the destination. Make sure to check for weather conditions and forecasts before hitting the road because Texan weather is mostly unpredictable. Always know about the backup roads and routes. Flexibility and patience are two vital skills for overlanding, whether in Texas or anywhere.

Q. Which is the best season for overlanding in Texas?

Mostly, spring and autumn seasons are recommended for overlanding in Texas as the weather is mild and temperatures are moderate. Adventure in these seasons can be enjoyed to the fullest.

Q. What are places worth exploring and overlanding in Texas?

Worth exploring places include:

• Big Bend National Park
• Big Bend Ranch State Park
• Hill Country
• Gulf Coast
• East Texas Forests; Sam Houston and Davy Crockett
• Davis Mountains
• Llano Uplift